Juan Mata shocked at Di Matteo sacking

Chelsea midfielder Juan Mata has revealed his shock at the the sacking of Roberto Di Matteo, suggesting the removal of the Italian coach shows how “hard and unjust” the world of football can be.

The former boss won a Champions League and FA Cup double after less than a season in charge, but was dumped by club owner Roman Abramovich on November 21 as his side looked to be heading out of Europe.

Juan Mata

But Mata, who has now played under three managers at Stamford Bridge in less than two seasons, feels the 42-year-old will be back in the game before too long.

“Roberto (Di Matteo) won two trophies in just nine months which is very difficult to do, so you have to recognise the job he did,” he told reporters.

“But he has been sacked — that’s how hard and unjust football is. Just six months ago we were celebrating having won the Champions League.”

Ex-manager Roberto di Matteo

Mata recalled the celebrations after the unlikely double which followed the sacking of Andre Villas-Boas, saying Di Matteo gave the club memories which the fans will be forever grateful for.

“I’ll always remember the joy of our fans after we won the FA Cup and Champions League. Seeing thousands of people packing the streets to celebrate the trophies.”